Formal Features:
* Aesthetic Value: The work exhibits beauty, artistry, or skillful use of language. This can be through poetic language, evocative imagery, compelling narratives, or thoughtful structure.
* Complexity & Depth: The work explores themes, ideas, and human experiences in a nuanced and multifaceted way. It may challenge readers, evoke emotions, and provoke thought.
* Originality & Innovation: The work demonstrates a unique style, approach, or perspective that distinguishes it from other works. It may break conventions or introduce new ideas.
* Structure & Form: The work demonstrates a deliberate and intentional organization, whether it's a traditional narrative, a poetic form, or a more experimental structure.
Content & Themes:
* Universality & Relevance: The work addresses themes or human experiences that resonate with a broad audience, transcending specific cultural contexts.
* Enduring Value: The work remains relevant and engaging over time, continuing to hold meaning and value for generations.
* Exploration of Human Condition: The work delves into aspects of human nature, relationships, emotions, motivations, and the complexities of existence.
* Social Commentary & Critique: The work may offer insights into societal issues, cultural norms, and power structures, potentially advocating for change or raising awareness.
However, it's important to remember:
* No Single Criterion: There's no single feature that definitively makes something "literature."
* Subjectivity & Context: The perception of literary value can vary based on individual preferences, cultural contexts, and historical periods.
* Broad Spectrum: Literature encompasses a wide range of works, from classic novels to poetry to contemporary fiction to experimental writing.
Ultimately, whether a work is considered "literature" is a matter of individual and collective interpretation. While the features mentioned above provide a useful framework, the true significance of a work often lies in its ability to move, inspire, and provoke us in meaningful ways.